Planet Golf News for Monday, August 19, 2024

Hideki Matsuyama recovers from blowing big lead, hangs on to win FedEx St. Jude Championship, Lauren Coughlin's Dream Season Continues With A Win In Scotland

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PGN News Team
August 19, 2024 • Reading Time: 25 minutes

Monday, August 19, 2024

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Lauren Coughlin continues to turn heads amidst astonishing season

[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Two Minutes

Good Morning,

The world of golf continues to deliver excitement and drama, with standout performances across multiple tours and events this week. Hideki Matsuyama's victory at the FedEx St. Jude Championship was a testament to his resilience. Despite a mid-round collapse where he lost a five-shot lead, Matsuyama rallied back with clutch birdies on challenging holes to secure a two-shot victory. This marks his second win of the year and propels him into the top three of the FedExCup standings. The win came with a hefty $3.6 million payout and sets him up perfectly for the next phase of the playoffs. Matsuyama’s victory was further highlighted by his use of a new putter, which helped him navigate the greens with precision.

On the LPGA side, Lauren Coughlin continued her incredible season by claiming her second title in three weeks at the ISPS Handa Women’s Scottish Open. Coughlin’s journey from a rocky start to a commanding four-stroke victory showcases her determination and skill. Her recent success has not only boosted her confidence but also secured her a spot in the upcoming Solheim Cup, making this a career-defining summer for her. The tournament saw strong performances from players like Esther Henseleit, who finished second, and Megan Khang, who tied for third.

Meanwhile, the FedEx St. Jude Championship wasn’t just about individual victories. It also served as a crucial battleground for those trying to make it into the top 50 of the FedExCup standings. This cutoff determines who advances to the BMW Championship and secures places in next year's signature events. The intensity was palpable as players like Max Greyserman and Eric Cole managed to secure their spots, while others faced disappointment.

Brooks Koepka also made headlines by defeating Jon Rahm in a playoff at the LIV Golf Greenbrier event. Koepka’s final round of 63 set him up for the playoff, where Rahm’s struggles on the 18th hole allowed Koepka to clinch the victory. This marks Koepka’s second LIV win this year, further solidifying his dominance in the series. His team, Smash GC, also took home the team title, capping off a successful weekend for the former PGA star.

In other news, Ken Tanigawa ended a five-year drought by winning the Rogers Charity Classic on the PGA Tour Champions. His stellar final round, including a course record-tying 61, led him to victory. This was his first win since the 2019 Senior PGA Championship, marking a triumphant return to form for the veteran golfer.

The D+D REAL Czech Masters on the DP World Tour saw David Ravetto claim his maiden title with a stunning final round of 64. The Frenchman overcame a one-shot deficit to win by four strokes, showcasing his composure and skill under pressure.

The 2024 U.S. Amateur Championship added another layer of excitement to this week’s golf action with a dramatic conclusion at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Minnesota. Emerging victorious from a field of 312 players representing 35 countries was Noah Kent, a rising sophomore at the University of Iowa. The 19-year-old showcased extraordinary talent and resilience throughout the tournament, quickly becoming a crowd favorite with his powerful play and confident demeanor.

As the FedExCup playoffs and other global golf tournaments continue, the stage is set for more drama and excitement in the coming weeks. With players like Matsuyama and Koepka in top form, and rising stars like Coughlin making their mark, fans can expect thrilling finishes and intense competition as the season progresses.

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

Hideki Matsuyama goes from collapse to clutch, wins playoff opener at FedEx St. Jude

Hideki Matsuyama overcame a significant collapse to win the FedEx St. Jude Championship, finishing at 17-under 263. After losing a five-shot lead, he recovered with crucial birdies on tough holes, ultimately securing a two-shot victory. This win marks his second of the year, earning him $3.6 million and moving him to third in the FedExCup standings.

Lauren Coughlin Continues Her Historic Season with Second Win at ISPS Handa Womens Scottish Open

Lauren Coughlin won her second LPGA Tour title at the 2024 ISPS HANDA Women’s Scottish Open, securing a four-stroke victory despite a rocky start. Coughlin's performance included key birdies on the final holes, while Germany's Esther Henseleit finished second. Coughlin expressed disbelief at her success, highlighting her hard work, and Henseleit noted her confidence from recent performances. Other notable finishes included Ayaka Furue in the top ten and Megan Khang sharing third place.

Bubble trouble, FedExCup math and golf's craziest day

The FedEx St. Jude Championship saw intense competition as players scrambled to secure spots in the top 50 of the FedExCup standings, crucial for advancing to the BMW Championship and next year's Signature Events. Max Greyserman and Eric Cole succeeded in making the cut, while Cam Davis narrowly avoided elimination due to the misfortunes of others. The event highlighted the drama of the playoffs, with players expressing a mix of relief and disappointment as they navigated the pressures of the tournament.

FedExCup top 50: Who is at BMW Championship and in 2025 signature events

The FedExCup playoffs now feature the top 50 players, who qualify for the BMW Championship, a no-cut tournament with a $20 million prize. The top 30 after this event will advance to the Tour Championship, while all top 50 players secure spots in eight signature events in 2025, offering further financial rewards and FedExCup points. The list includes notable players like Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, and Rory McIlroy.

Koepka beats Rahm in LIV Golf Greenbrier playoff

Brooks Koepka won his second LIV Golf victory of the year by defeating Jon Rahm in a playoff at The Greenbrier, shooting a final round of 7-under 63. Rahm, who had a two-shot lead going into the final round, matched Koepka at 19-under, but lost in the playoff after struggling with a tough shot on the 18th hole. Koepka's team, Smash, also secured the team title.

[ Today’s Feature Golf Reads ] 

Golf Tournaments from this past weekend

FedEx St. Jude Championship - PGA - TPC Southwind - Memphis, TN

The 2024 FedEx St. Jude Championship, held at TPC Southwind in Memphis, Tennessee, concluded with Hideki Matsuyama securing a decisive victory. Matsuyama entered the final round with a commanding five-shot lead, having consistently performed well throughout the tournament. His impressive play included a standout 6-under 64 on Saturday, which set him up as the clear favorite heading into Sunday. Matsuyama maintained his lead, finishing the tournament at 17-under par, showcasing his skill and composure under pressure.

The tournament was the first event of the 2024 FedExCup Playoffs, featuring the top 70 players in the FedExCup standings. Notable players such as Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Viktor Hovland competed, with Scheffler and Hovland finishing tied for third and fifth, respectively. McIlroy, however, struggled to find his form and ended up tied for 66th.

An interesting aspect of the tournament was Matsuyama's recent form, as he carried momentum from his bronze medal performance at the Paris Olympics. Additionally, he debuted a new putter during the championship, which proved to be a successful change.

Hideki Matsuyama recovers from blowing big lead, hangs on to win FedEx St. Jude Championship

Hideki Matsuyama won the 2024 FedEx St. Jude Championship despite blowing a significant lead, recovering to birdie the final two holes and finishing two strokes ahead of Viktor Hovland and Xander Schauffele. He faced challenges earlier in the week, including having his wallet stolen, but adapted by changing putters and achieving his best putting performance of the season. This victory marks Matsuyama's 10th career Tour title and a significant milestone in his pursuit of success in FedEx Cup playoff events.

How an emergency caddie helped Hideki Matsuyama win FedEx St. Jude Championship

Hideki Matsuyama won the FedEx St. Jude Championship with the help of emergency caddie Taiga Tabuchi after facing caddie issues. Matsuyama praised Tabuchi for assisting him with putt readings, which contributed to his strong finish, including back-to-back birdies on the final holes. This victory marks Matsuyama's advancement to the BMW Championship.

Jordan Spieth set for left wrist surgery 'ASAP' as 2024 season ends with a whimper at St. Jude Championship

Jordan Spieth's 2024 season concludes after failing to make the top 50 in the FedEx Cup standings, leading him to announce immediate surgery on his left wrist, which has troubled him for two years. Despite a strong driving performance, his overall game suffered, resulting in only three top 20 finishes in 22 events. Spieth plans to take a cautious recovery approach, aiming to return stronger, and remains optimistic about his future in golf.

Tom Kim's late meltdown at 2024 FedEx St. Jude Championship ends his playoffs

Tom Kim's performance at the 2024 FedEx St. Jude Championship ended in disappointment as he finished with a series of bogeys, likely costing him a place in the FedEx Cup Playoffs. After starting the week at No. 43, he dropped to No. 51, which means he will miss qualifying for key PGA Tour events in 2025. Despite a strong start, a bogey on the 16th hole and subsequent mistakes led to his downfall, reflecting a challenging season filled with ups and downs.

FedEx St. Jude Championship Videos

ISPS Handa Women’s Scottish Open - LPGA - Dundonald Links - Ayrshire, Scotland

The 2024 ISPS Handa Women's Scottish Open concluded with Lauren Coughlin emerging as the champion at Dundonald Links in Ayrshire, Scotland. This victory marked Coughlin's second LPGA Tour win in three starts, following her success at the CPKC Women’s Open. Coughlin entered the final day with a one-stroke lead and managed to secure her win with a final round of 69, finishing at 15-under par. Her performance included five birdies and two bogeys, showcasing her resilience and skill under pressure

Coughlin's victory was significant not only for her personal career but also because it guaranteed her a spot in the upcoming Solheim Cup. She finished four strokes ahead of Germany's Esther Henseleit, who claimed second place after a strong performance that included back-to-back birdies on the 10th and 11th holes. Henseleit's consistent play throughout the tournament was commendable, especially following her silver medal win at the Paris Olympics.

Other notable performances included Megan Khang and Ayaka Furue, who tied for third place at 9-under par. Charley Hull rounded out the top five, finishing in fifth place at 8-under par. Defending champion Celine Boutier ended in a tie for 25th place

The tournament's total prize pool was $2 million, with Coughlin taking home $300,000 for her victory.

Two wins in three weeks has this LPGA pro on a career-altering run

Lauren Coughlin has achieved a remarkable turnaround in her LPGA career, winning two tournaments in three weeks, including the Canadian Women’s Open and the ISPS Handa Scottish Women’s Open. Her recent success has propelled her into the top 20 of the Rolex Women’s Rankings, showcasing her improved performance and ability to handle challenging conditions. Coughlin emphasizes her hard work and belief in her skills, as she prepares for the upcoming AIG Women’s Open amidst tough weather forecasts.

Lydia Ko fades to finish ninth in Scotland

Lydia Ko finished ninth at the Women's Scottish Open, carding a three-over 74 in the final round, while American Lauren Coughlin won the tournament with a 15-under total. Ko struggled with three bogeys after an early birdie, ending the event ten shots behind Coughlin.

ISPS Handa Women’s Scottish Open Videos

Rogers Charity Classic - PGA Tour Champions - Canyon Meadows Golf & CC - Calgary, AB

Ken Tanigawa claimed victory at the 2024 Rogers Charity Classic, marking his third career win on the PGA Tour Champions. The tournament, held at Canyon Meadows Golf & Country Club in Calgary, Alberta, saw Tanigawa deliver a stellar performance with a final round of 6-under 64, allowing him to finish at 17-under 193. This triumph was particularly notable as it was his first win since the 2019 Senior PGA Championship.

Tanigawa's path to victory included a remarkable hole-in-one on the 210-yard 16th hole during Saturday's round, where he matched the Canyon Meadows course record with a career-best 61. Entering the final day two strokes behind Richard Green, Tanigawa's birdies on the par-5 15th and 17th holes were crucial in securing his lead and eventual win.

Richard Green, who had led going into the final round after an impressive 62 on Saturday, finished two shots behind Tanigawa. Despite his strong performance, Green bogeyed the par-3 14th and the par-4 17th, ultimately carding a 68 on the final day. Darren Clarke and Jason Caron tied for third place at 14 under, while Mario Tiziani finished fifth at 13 under.

Ken Tanigawa captures win at Rogers Charity Classic to end five-year drought

Ken Tanigawa ended a five-year winless streak by winning the 2024 Rogers Charity Classic on the PGA Tour Champions, capturing the title by two shots. After struggling in previous tournaments, he made ten birdies in a crucial round and showcased exceptional putting skills. Richard Green, the 54-hole leader, finished as runner-up after faltering in the final holes. Tanigawa's victory marked his first win since the 2019 Senior PGA Championship, highlighting his perseverance and support from his wife.

Ken Tanigawa's interview after winning Rogers Charity Classic

Following his final-round 64 at the 2024 Rogers Charity Classic, Ken Tanigawa talks about how great it feels to finally be back in the winner's circle.

LIV Golf Greenbrier - The Old White Course - White Sulphur Springs, WV

The 2024 LIV Golf Greenbrier tournament, held at The Old White Course in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, concluded with Brooks Koepka emerging as the winner. Koepka secured his victory in a dramatic fashion, defeating Jon Rahm in a one-hole playoff after both players finished the tournament at 19-under par. This win marked Koepka's second LIV Golf League victory of the year and his fifth overall title in the series.

The tournament featured a competitive field, with notable performances from top golfers, adding to the excitement of the event. The Old White Course, with its rich history and challenging design, provided a fitting venue for the competition. In addition to Koepka's individual triumph, his team, Smash GC, also claimed victory in the team competition. They finished with a score of 53-under, outpacing the all-Australian Ripper squad by three strokes. Koepka's performance, along with his team's success, highlighted the tournament's thrilling conclusion and underscored his standing as one of the top players in the LIV Golf League.

Koepka beats Rahm in play-off to win LIV Greenbrier

Brooks Koepka won his fifth LIV Golf title by defeating Jon Rahm in a playoff at the LIV Greenbrier tournament, finishing with a final round of 63. Rahm, who had a two-shot lead, matched Koepka at 19-under to force the playoff but missed a crucial putt. Koepka's team, Smash GC, also secured the team title, and he expressed satisfaction in overcoming Rahm, who had previously bested him in their recent encounters.

D+D REAL Czech Masters - DP World - PGA National Oaks Prague - Prague, Czechia

The 2024 D+D REAL Czech Masters, part of the DP World Tour, concluded with David Ravetto emerging as the champion. The tournament took place at the PGA National Czech Republic Oaks Prague, a course renowned for its challenging design by Kyle Phillips. This marked the first time the event was held at this venue, which has been recognized as the Czech Republic’s Best Golf Course for several consecutive years.

David Ravetto secured his victory by a comfortable margin, finishing four shots ahead of his closest competitor, Jesper Svensson. The tournament, which featured a strong field including major champions and Ryder Cup players, was a significant event in the Race to Dubai, offering 3,000 points and a winner's prize of $425,000 from a total purse of $2.5 million.

The Czech Masters was notable not only for its competitive field but also for the variety of entertainment and activities available for spectators, including golf clinics and trick shows. This year’s edition celebrated the tournament's 10th anniversary, further enhancing its reputation as a premier golfing event in Europe./

Czech Masters: David Ravetto claims maiden DP World Tour victory with stunning closing round 64

David Ravetto won his first DP World Tour title at the D+D REAL Czech Masters, finishing with a remarkable closing round of 64. He overcame a one-shot deficit to Jesper Svensson, who struggled on the 16th hole, allowing Ravetto to secure a four-shot victory. Ravetto expressed emotional relief and joy upon his win, highlighting the fun strategy he maintained throughout the tournament.

Magnit Championship - Korn Ferry - Metedeconk National Golf Club - Jackson Twp. NJ

Max McGreevy emerged as the overall winner of the 2024 Magnit Championship. He set a 54-hole tournament record at 15-under par alongside Will Chandler, holding a two-shot lead going into the final round. McGreevy's performance throughout the tournament secured his victory at the Metedeconk National Golf Club in Jackson Township, New Jersey.

Max McGreevy wins Magnit Championship; Korn Ferry Tour Finals starting field finalized

Max McGreevy won the Magnit Championship, his second title of the Korn Ferry Tour season, with an 18-under total, securing a three-shot victory. This win positions him second in the season-long standings, enhancing his push for the top spot and a return to the PGA TOUR. The Korn Ferry Tour Finals will feature the top 156 players, with McGreevy aiming for continued success after previously losing his PGA TOUR card. Other notable performances included Tim Widing, Frankie Capan III, and Ricky Castillo, all finishing tied for second.

Arnold Palmer's Grandson Announces Retirement From Pro Golf After Missing Latest Cut

Sam Saunders, grandson of golf legend Arnold Palmer, has announced his retirement from professional golf at 37 after 320 starts, citing a challenging season with nine missed cuts in his last ten events. Despite notable achievements, including a playoff appearance in 2015 and shooting a 59 on the Korn Ferry Tour, injuries influenced his decision. He expressed gratitude for his career and support from family and friends, looking forward to the next chapter of his life.

U.S. Amateur - USGA - Hazeltine National Golf Club - Chaska, Minn

The 2024 U.S. Amateur Championship concluded at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota, with a thrilling finale that saw Noah Kent from the United States emerge victorious. The championship featured a diverse field of 312 players from 35 countries, showcasing some of the best amateur talent in the world. The tournament began with stroke play at both Hazeltine National and Chaska Town Course before moving to match play at Hazeltine.

Noah Kent, a 19-year-old rising sophomore from the University of Iowa, captivated fans throughout the week with his impressive performances. Known for his powerful play, Kent quickly became a crowd favorite, drawing significant support from local fans and fellow students. His journey to the final was marked by a series of strong performances, including a notable victory in the semifinals against Jackson Buchanan, where he secured a 2-up win.

In the final, Kent faced José Luis Ballester from Spain, who was ranked 10th in the world. Ballester, a senior at Arizona State University, was the first Spaniard to reach the U.S. Amateur championship match. Despite Ballester's higher ranking and experience, Kent's determination and skill led him to victory, making him the first Hawkeye to win the U.S. Amateur and only the second to claim a USGA title.

As the 2024 U.S. Amateur champion, Noah Kent earned a gold medal, the Havemeyer Trophy, and exemptions to future major championships, including the 2025 U.S. Open and a likely invitation to the 2025 Masters.

Ole! Newly crowned U.S. Amateur champ Jose Luis Ballester is just getting started

Jose Luis Ballester won the 2024 U.S. Amateur Championship, defeating Noah Kent in the final. Despite facing a supportive crowd for his opponent, Ballester showcased his skills, including a remarkable drive from 315 yards. He drew on advice from Sergio Garcia to maintain composure and patience throughout the tournament. This victory, marking his first major title, coincided with his 21st birthday and highlighted his determination and emotional connection to his family during a challenging summer.

Upcoming: Solheim Cup (9/13-9/15)

Lauren Coughlin earns second LPGA win, secures Solheim Cup spot at Women's Scottish

Lauren Coughlin won the Women's Scottish Open with a 3-under 69, marking her second LPGA title this summer and securing a spot on the U.S. Solheim Cup team. She finished at 15-under 273, four shots ahead of Esther Henseleit. Coughlin's victory, highlighted by her strong putting, ensures her debut in the Solheim Cup matches scheduled for September 13-15.

Today’s Best Golf Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

The putter switch that propelled Hideki Matsuyama to victory at the 2024 FedEx St. Jude Championship

Hideki Matsuyama achieved victory at the 2024 FedEx St. Jude Championship by debuting a new Scotty Cameron putter, which significantly improved his putting performance, allowing him to top the field in strokes gained/putting. He also performed well with other clubs, ranking high in greens in regulation and strokes gained/approach.

Winner's Bag: Hideki Matsuyama, FedEx St. Jude Championship

Hideki Matsuyama's winning equipment at the 2024 FedEx St. Jude Championship includes a Srixon ZX5 Mk II LS driver, TaylorMade Qi10 and Cobra King RadSpeed Tour fairway woods, Srixon Z-Forged II irons, Cleveland RTX 4 Forged prototype wedges, a Scotty Cameron putter, and Srixon Z-Star XV golf balls.

Overheard in the Club House

It’s rare when an approach shot to 75 feet is amazing, but Thomas Detry’s may make you change your mind

During the FedEx St. Jude Championship, Thomas Detry made a remarkable 74-foot approach shot despite a challenging position under a temporary fence, ultimately finishing the tournament at two-under 278, which allowed him to advance to the next playoff round. His performance included a seven-under par start but was marred by two bogeys in the final holes.

Tom Kim makes dent on green in frustration, Golf Twitter lets him have it

During the FedEx St. Jude Championship, golfer Tom Kim expressed frustration by making a dent on the green after missing a birdie putt. His performance deteriorated with a series of bogeys, leading to criticism on social media. Although his caddie later repaired the dent, the incident raised concerns about Kim's behavior and its implications for his tournament standing.

Brooks Koepka dismisses reporter's Jon Rahm question after claiming latest LIV Golf win

Brooks Koepka won the LIV Golf Greenbrier event, defeating Jon Rahm in a playoff after both were tied at 19-under. Koepka expressed satisfaction with the victory, noting it was his first win against Rahm since the 2023 Masters, where he had previously struggled. Rahm dismissed rumors about wanting to rejoin the PGA Tour, stating they were false.

Can PGA Tour pros play golf anywhere they want? Michael Kim explains: “quick answer is not really”

Michael Kim clarified that PGA Tour pros cannot play at exclusive golf courses like Pebble Beach and Augusta National without a member's invitation. While they can request access at many private courses, the most prestigious ones require knowing a member. Kim also discussed the perks of being a pro golfer, including free equipment and various discounts from sponsors, noting that the initial excitement of these benefits can diminish over time.

Latest Official World Golf Ranking

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Latest FedExCup Standings

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UPCOMING TOURS

PGA TOUR Schedule 2024

Click to see the entire PGA Tour Schedule for 2024 including the Previous winners and Purse.

LIV Golf Schedule 2024

Click to see the entire LIV Tour Schedule for 2024 including the Previous winners and Purse.

LPGA Tour Schedule 2024

Click to see the entire LPGA Tour Schedule for 2024 including the Previous winners and Purse.

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